Protests begin over UK papal visit

Euronews

Even before the Pope arrives in the UK for an official visit, demonstrations have already begun.

A small group of protesters gathered outside the Vatican’s embassy in London, calling for more action against sex abuse within the church.

The Pope arrives in the UK on September 16, for the UK’s first papal visit since 1982.

One demonstrator, Barbara Blaine, said: “We are asking that the pope and the Vatican establish a worldwide database with the names of all of the known predator priests. We believe that these names should be made public, so that children can be protected today.”

Critics of the four-day visit are angry that British taxpayers will cover a large part of the cost – the equivalent of 14.5 million euros.

Groups representing abuse victims and the gay community are among those vowing to protest during the visit.